After coming through the Cardiff system, Jenkins played a key role as Wales became the first team to beat New Zealand at Under-20 level in 2012 and led the side to a second-placed finish a year later.
His crowning Cardiff moment came in Bilbao as he led Cardiff to a second European Challenge Cup title.
Jenkins captained the senior Wales side on the 2018 summer tour against South Africa and Argentina.
His career was derailed after helping Wales to victory against the Springboks with a man-of-the-match performance at the Principality Stadium, but he suffered a significant ACL knee injury in the final moments.
Jenkins was ruled out of action for 26 months but displayed remarkable resilience to return to action, adding 43 club appearances and a further four Test caps to his name.
This included a Wales comeback against South Africa in 2021 and captaining his country again, this time against Fiji.
His last Wales appearance came in the 2022 Six Nations defeat by Ireland in Dublin.
“It’s been tough physically and mentally but I’m enormously proud of everything I have achieved in my career,” said Jenkins.
“Particularly coming back from such a big injury to play for Cardiff and Wales again.”
Jenkins is content with his decision.
“The highs are things like Bilbao, derbies and European occasions at the Arms Park, winning my first cap and captaining Wales, but also experiences, travel and friendships rugby has given me,” said Jenkins.
“I have been fortunate and am grateful to everyone who has supported me on my journey.
“I am looking forward to enjoying rugby from the terrace with a beer, doing all the things I could not do as a player and leading a fit and active life with my young family.”
